Seized dogs have new lease of life.

Monday

Jul 8, 2013 at 9:19 AMJul 8, 2013 at 9:20 AM

Christy Hart-Harris

charris@thedailyreporter.com

COLDWATER — The Shih Tzus and Spaniels that were seized from a hoarding situation in Hillsdale last month are progressing after receiving extensive medical care. The dogs—18 total—range in age from four to 9 years old.

Unfortunately, two of the Shih Tzu's conditions were too severe for them to be saved.

With networking, three of the Shih Tzus have been taken to Humane Society of South Central Michigan in Battle Creek Michigan. The Cocker Spaniels and one Shih Tzu were transported to A Caring Place in Westmont, Illinois. The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel has been transferred to a local, private Cavalier rescue and the remaining 10 Shih Tzus are currently reside in Animal Aid of Branch County’s foster homes. The 10 Shih Tzus still in the care of AABC, are receiving medications for skin infections, ear infections and dry eye.

"We are assessing their temperaments and monitoring their health," said President of the AABC, Sally Geer. "One little boy we were told was blind from heat stroke he suffered last year. Our vet believes it is a condition that can be corrected with medication. And, in fact, was able to follow my finger as I moved it past his face this week," she added.

Geer also stated that some of the Shih Tzus have been "coming out of their shell" and being more playful and enjoy human attention and interaction.

"When we are comfortable they are ready, some of them will be transferred to other rescues to finish their healing and to be adopted. The rest of them—when they are healthy enough—the AABC will have them spayed or neutered, brought up-to-date on vaccinations and micro-chipped and then place them in forever homes," said Geer.

Geer encourages community members to volunteer as fosters or to adopt a pet from the AABC. "We are accepting applications now and will review each application as it is received," she said.

For more information, to adopt or become a pet foster parents, email AABC at animalaidofbranchcounty@yahoo.com or call Sally at 517-294-1360.

"We do have approximately 20 other dogs and 40 cats and kittens available for adoption too and we would still sincerely appreciate donations toward the expenses for their care. Donations can be sent to AABC, c/o Neitzert’s Greenhouse, 217 N. Fiske Road, Coldwater, MI 49036 or use the ‘donate’ button on our website www.animalaidofbranchcounty.com," said Geer.